Sebastian Zumvü speaking during the 24th foundation day of
KPC in Kohima on Monday.
KOHIMA — Former
journalist and chairman of Sovima Village Council, Sebastian Zumvü, said on
Monday that with the rise of smartphones and YouTubers in the state, the Kohima
Press Club (KPC), as pioneers, should establish regulations, as some YouTubers
may lack credibility and journalistic ethics.
He was speaking as a special guest during the 24th
foundation day celebration of the Kohima Press Club (KPC) on Monday at the KPC
office, APO Building, Kohima, and suggested that the KPC collaborate with the
Information and Public Relations Department to establish regulations for
YouTubers.
During his speech, he also recalled the early days of
journalism in the 1990s, narrating how they faced challenges but also created
memorable moments.
He mentioned that during his time, the internet was a luxury
and expressed that it was an enriching experience. He noted that times have
changed, and the present generation now has access to laptops, personal
computers, and smartphones.
He also highlighted that in Nagaland, until recently, many
relied on print media for news, but in the last couple of years, he has noticed
the flourishing of YouTubers, and the print media might slowly decline. He
cited that before even reading the local paper the next day, most information
is already available on the same day.
Alice Yhoshü, president of KPC, in her presidential address,
recalled how the KPC was formed in 2001 to protect and promote the rights of
journalists.
She said that as the press club celebrates its foundation
today, tribute is paid to the pioneering members and former leaders for their
efforts and valuable leadership. She mentioned that their farsightedness has
steered the Kohima Press Club to its current standing.
Stressing that the KPC is yet to have its own permanent
building, she appreciated the state government for allotting a plot of land in
the New Secretariat area for the construction of the KPC building. She also
expressed hope following the announcement made by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio
last year to construct a permanent Press Club building at the state
government-allotted site.
She said that the club is pursuing the matte and, according
to the latest update, the state government has assured that the construction
will be taken up in the upcoming fiscal year.
Further, she called on all members to rededicate themselves
to the profession, serve society, and continue upholding the ethics of
journalism. She emphasised that, as a whole, the fraternity needs to mainstream
the concept of being catalysts for truth, justice, and development.
She added that, as members of the fourth estate, they will
continue to face challenging situations in their professional lives, but they
must maintain their credibility by upholding the ethics of journalism and
promoting a responsible media landscape.
Senior journalist Narain B Sagar reminded them that the
celebration is not just another milestone in the history of their own family
but a reminder of the invaluable role the press plays in society.
He stated that the celebration also served as a prelude to
the club's silver jubilee next year and called on everyone to renew their
commitment to upholding the values of responsible journalism, promoting
transparency, and fostering a well-informed and engaged society.
The official website of the KPC was also launched by the
special guest of the programme. The president of KPC mentioned that the
objective of having their own website is to establish an online presence in
today's ever-expanding digital landscape and provide information about their
objectives and activities. She maintained that the website aims to enhance the
credibility of the press club while promoting professionalism.
She also informed that the website will include the history,
objectives, programmes, projects, and activities of the KPC and will serve as
their digital archive.
Kopelo Krome and Jonas Yanthan also delivered short
speeches, sharing their experiences, thoughts, and ideas. During the program, a
song was performed by Seyiekietuo Keretsü and the general secretary's report
was delivered by Vishü Rita Krocha.
